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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at South Carolina chapter.

I don’t know about you guys, but I love date nights. I get really excited for date nights because it’s when you and your partner get to spend good quality time together doing fun activities. Specifically, there is nothing like date night in the beautiful city of Columbia, South Carolina. In this article, I will provide some of my ideas of local activities to do with your partner.

  1. South Carolina State Fair

The fair is always the most popular place during the fall season and occurs between mid to late October. There’s so much to do at the state fair including riding the rides, watching the Circus, visiting the petting zoo and eating the expensive but delicious food.

2. Lake Murray

If you prefer a more outdoor and adventurous date, I recommend Lake Murray. Though it is fall, some days are still in the low 80s and the perfect weather for a day in the water. You can do anything from tubing to fishing at Lake Murray. It’s also a beautiful place to go on a nice walk and enjoy quality time. Near one of the ends of the walkway is a fence with hundreds of locks where you and your partner can put your own love lock. I’m actually doing this soon with my boyfriend for our anniversary, and I think it’s a very romantic idea.

3. The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

There’s nothing cooler than walking around with your significant other looking at cute animals. The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is an amazing place for a date, especially during the Halloween season.They host Boo at the Zoo, an annual family-friendly event where visitors get to dress up in their best costumes and get candy.

4. Monetta Drive-In Theatre

Located about 45 minutes from Columbia, S.C. is the Monetta Drive-In Theatre. Enjoy a date under the stars while watching a new movie. It’s only open on the weekends, but there are three screens giving you options as to what movie to watch. You’re also allowed to bring outside snacks or get food at the concessions.

Date night is always the best night because couples are able to create fond, loving memories with each other. I hope this list inspired you! Have fun on your next date night!

Avona Le

South Carolina '25

Hi! I'm the President of the Her Campus chapter at South Carolina. I'm currently a senior at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, majoring in Marketing and Finance with a concentration in Business Analytics. In my free time, I love to try new restaurants, hang with friends and go on walks. I am always down to catch an amazing view of the sun or the stars!